Kids Programming May Hold The Key For Networks

This year will be a big one for networks and streaming services alike as the industry has seen major changes in recent months as more and more consumers turn to online streaming and mobile options rather than traditional cable. As companies like Time Warner Inc. TWX work to find new ways to keep their customers coming back for more, it appears that children, rather than millennials, will be this year's prime target. A New Generation While millennials are largely responsible for the ever growing market for online TV streaming services, many firms are starting to focus on a different segment in order to draw in more customers— children. Children's programming isn't always as glamorous as the shows that draw in the 25-35 year old crowd, but many firms believe that child-friendly shows will pay off when it comes to subscriber numbers. HBO Time Warner's HBO is offering a new "Kids" section in its mobile app in an effort to give parents on-the-go content options. The company will offer shows like "Sesame Street" and "Pinky Dinky Doo" that are popular among both kids and parents. The decision to focus on children's programming represents a shift in HBO's image, which used to cater to adults with racy programming like "Game of Thrones" and comedy specials. However, as more and more parents turn to mobile devices like tablets and smartphones to keep their kids entertained on the go, HBO's latest app update could prove a compelling reason to subscribe. Netflix Not to be outdone, Netflix NFLX is also planning its own foray into children's programming. The company has earned several accolades for its adult-themed original series and is hoping to use that experience to create equally successful children's shows. Netflix Chief Content Office Ted Sarandos said the firm is planning to allocate a large portion of its $5 billion programming budget on children shows and that the company plans to increase the number of children's offerings to 35 from 15 over the next year.